Security and Safety Information

 Spain has a considerably lower crime rate than the United Kingdom, especially where violent crime is concerned. However, opportunist street and house crime is prevalent so it is important to remain alert to your personal and home security.

Be secure in your car......People have been followed from the airport and had their cars bumped to simulate an accident, and then had their loose valuables stolen when the driver stopped to check! Be aware of the Good Samaritan, someone who indicates that you have a flat tyre, etc. They may want to steal from you. Always keep valuables out of sight and lock the car, even when stopping for only a few moments.

Be alert when on the beach, in restaurants, and shopping.........If you must carry a handbag, keep it under your arm or around your shoulder. Wallets and purses are particularly vulnerable at market places and shopping malls. Keep your wallet in your front pocket with your hand on it! Do not leave valuables unattended on tables. Be wary of persons loitering nearby when you are at the ATM or leaving the bank; thieves will drop money at your feet in order to distract you. Never carry all your money, documents, and valuables, in one handbag or backpack.

Secure your home..........When leaving the house, even to go to the pool, close and lock all shutters, grills, and doors and activate the alarm system. Even when in the house, ensure that you lock the gates, doors or security grills; it is common practice for opportunist thieves to try the gates and boldly enter a house with open doors. Keep keys, handbags, and other valuables out of reach and out of sight of open windows, even if you have security grills. A common method of stealing from a property is by fishing (often with a makeshift rod) through an open window; especially during the hotter months when sleepers leave their windows open.

Reporting a crime to the Police............If you are unfortunate enough to become a victim it is important that you report the matter to the local police. Be aware that if you visit the police station they may not speak English and insist that you obtain the services of an interpreter. There is a new freephone number to report a crime by telephone, operators speak several languages and will file a report which you must go to the police station to sign within a stated period of time.

Emergency......Police, Fire and Ambulance 112

Police Freephone Tel: 902 102 112